Ex-NY Trooper Convicted in Manslaughter of 11-Year-Old During Chase

Christopher Baldner faces up to 15 years in prison for the 2020 incident on the New York State Thruway.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 7:27am

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A former New York State Trooper, Christopher Baldner, was convicted of manslaughter on Friday following a second trial related to a December 2020 incident on the New York State Thruway. The conviction stems from a high-speed chase that resulted in the death of 11-year-old Monica Goods.

Why it matters

The outcome of this case, following a mistrial and a second trial, underscores the complexities inherent in evaluating split-second decisions made by law enforcement officers during high-speed pursuits, and the significant legal consequences that can follow.

The details

Prosecutors argued that Baldner rammed the SUV carrying Monica Goods and her family twice, causing the vehicle to lose control and overturn. Monica Goods died as a result of the crash. Attorneys for Baldner maintained that the accident occurred after the SUV collided with his patrol car during the pursuit. The initial trial in November 2025 ended in a mistrial after the jury deadlocked on the manslaughter charge, but Baldner was acquitted of charges of murder and reckless endangerment.

  • The incident occurred on December 22, 2020.
  • Baldner retired from the state police in 2022.
  • The first trial was held in November 2025 and ended in a mistrial.
  • The second trial was held in March 2026, resulting in the manslaughter conviction.
  • Baldner's sentencing is scheduled for June 2, 2026.

The players

Christopher Baldner

A former New York State Trooper who was convicted of manslaughter in the second trial related to the 2020 incident.

Monica Goods

An 11-year-old girl who died as a result of the crash during the high-speed chase.

Tristin Goods

The father of Monica Goods and the driver of the SUV involved in the incident.

Jennifer Gashi

The Assistant State Attorney General who asserted that Baldner 'recklessly use[d] his patrol car as a weapon'.

Anthony Ricco

The defense attorney who argued that Tristin Goods acted recklessly and caused the crash.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

Judge Bryan Rounds has scheduled Baldner's sentencing for June 2, 2026.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complexities and legal consequences involved in high-speed police pursuits, raising questions about the use of force and the potential for escalation during traffic stops.